There are numerous reasons to visit Hawaii, from its breathtakingly beautiful beaches and tropical landscapes to its rich history. One of the most significant historical events that took place on the islands was the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, which marked America’s entry into World War II.
Planning a visit to Pearl Harbor is a meaningful way to connect with history and honor those who served during WWII. With this Pearl Harbor visitor’s guide, you’ll know what to expect and how to make the most of your visit.
Before your visit, take some time to learn about Pearl Harbor’s history to enrich your experience. Although many of us know that the Imperial Japanese Military bombed this site on December 7, 1941, we may not know what led up to it.
To expand your understanding of this national memorial, watch documentaries or read books detailing the attack and its aftermath. Doing research deepens your knowledge of this tragedy, making your visit even more impactful.
Rather than researching Pearl Harbor as a whole, you can narrow your scope by focusing on specific sites, such as the USS Arizona or the USS Bowfin.
Visiting Pearl Harbor’s attractions requires plenty of walking and time outdoors, so it’s crucial to dress for comfort. It’s best to wear lightweight clothing, such as shorts and a t-shirt, so that you don’t feel too hot in the tropical climate.
Moreover, wearing comfortable walking shoes is important, as there are many uneven surfaces and long walks between attractions. Some tours can last six to eight hours, which may mean a full day of walking and standing.
Don’t forget to bring a hat or sunglasses for sun protection and sunscreen to keep your skin safe from the intense Hawaiian sun.
Another thing you should know about visiting Pearl Harbor is that you cannot bring most backpacks or purses beyond the bag check. Before packing a bag with everything needed for the day, check the memorial’s website for what is and is not permitted. Often, small plastic bags, like those brought to concerts, are approved.
Pearl Harbor has a strict bag policy because it is an active military base. You can carry a camera, phone, and wallet if they fit into your pockets or a clear plastic bag provided by the visitor center.
If you pack a bag that you cannot bring into Pearl Harbor, you can store it at a nearby bag check or place it in your vehicle.
As previously explained, Pearl Harbor remains an operational military base, which means visitors must follow rules and restrictions. Security protocols are in place to ensure both public safety and military operational integrity. Some areas of the base are off-limits to the public, and visitors must adhere to established procedures.
Read through the museum websites to learn what to expect before your visit. Always be respectful of the ongoing military operations. If you have questions, ask the staff or volunteers for clarification. Going to Pearl Harbor is about learning and respecting the past and national heroes.
Pearl Harbor offers several key attractions, and planning ahead ensures you don’t miss anything significant. Trying to visit everything in one day can be overwhelming and only gives you a shallow understanding of each area.
Each attraction offers unique insights into Pearl Harbor’s role in history and the broader context of World War II. The most popular sites to visit at Pearl Harbor include:
Many history lovers and military buffs also refer to the USS Bowfin as “The Pearl Harbor Avenger” because the US Navy used it to retaliate against Japan a year after the attack.
Today, the USS Bowfin remains docked at Pearl Harbor and serves as a museum. The museum provides firsthand insights into the life of crewmembers who served on board during wartime. The accompanying museum expands on the submarine’s importance, featuring displays about undersea warfare and naval advancements. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in military strategy.
The USS Missouri is one of Pearl Harbor’s most awe-inspiring attractions. This battleship was pivotal in ending World War II, as the Japanese military surrendered aboard her deck in 1945. The Missouri now serves as a living museum, showcasing American naval power and innovation.
Visitors can explore various parts of the ship, including the surrender deck, the captain’s quarters, and the weaponry stations. Guided tours provide fascinating details about the ship’s history and its crew.
The USS Arizona Memorial is one of Pearl Harbor’s most solemn and iconic sites. It honors the 1,177 crew members who lost their lives during the attack. The memorial sits above the sunken remains of the battleship, making it a profoundly moving experience for visitors.
Your visit typically begins with a short film providing historical context, followed by a ferry ride to the memorial. Take your time absorbing the atmosphere and reflecting on the sacrifices made by the crew members of the USS Arizona.
The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is located on Ford Island and is only accessible by shuttle or car; if you’re already at Pearl Harbor, it’s easiest to take one of the museum shuttles. This military museum highlights the aerial aspect of the attack and subsequent conflicts.
Interestingly, this museum is housed in two hangars that survived the 1941 attack, adding an authentic historical backdrop to the experience. While here, visitors can view iconic planes, such as the Japanese Zero and the American P-40 Warhawk. The museum also offers flight simulators that provide a hands-on experience of what it’s like to pilot these powerful machines.
Although you can visit Pearl Harbor on your own, you may miss out on context and historical details. Tour guides often have extensive knowledge about Pearl Harbor history and can provide interesting anecdotes that add depth to your experience.
Booking a tour makes your visit more memorable and helps ensure you see everything on your list. You can ask your guide questions about Pearl Harbor or the events that led to the attack to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the site and its significance.
Pearlharbortour.org is a locally owned tour agency that offers a variety of Pearl Harbor tour packages, including private and group options. During tours, you’ll visit several sites and gain insight into the attack’s timeline and aftermath. Book your tour to enjoy a well-rounded experience that explores the different memorials and museums.